Justin Hinds & The Dominoes

• Genre: Ska

About

Justin Hinds is one of the few musicians to successfully bridge Ska, Rock Steady, and Roots Reggae, with hits in all three areas. He began his career in the early 1960s with backing singers the Dominoes in tow, and hasn't quit yet -- he can still electrify an audience with a show that feels like a musical history lesson. Balanced by the strong, influential, and conscious lyrics he's been delivering for years, his sweet tenor has a touch of grit to it, making it all the more earthy and real. One of the first to bring Rastafarian ideals into Ska and Rock Steady, Hinds often recites biblical proverbs in his lyrics, with a powerful delivery not lost on performers such as Bob Marley and Burning Spear. His group's fast Ska and slightly slowed down Rock Steady are what they're known for best, but Roots Reggae gems like Jezebel stand out and prove their versatility.

- Jessy Terry